Rocio, 22
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina Came to Australia in February 2010
How did we meet?
Rocio was one of my colleagues back when I worked at NAB; we were in the same Servicing team.
What is your occupation?
I am an unsecured lending banker at NAB, dealing with personal loans, credit cards and opening new accounts.
Why did you come to Australia?
My dad, who was born in Melbourne, Australia moved back to live in Argentina and Uruguay with his parents when he was young.
He thought we would have a better life over here in Australia so that’s why we came, in terms of safety, education etc.
What do you like about Sydney?
I like how there’s a lot of nature, like beaches and hiking tracks all around Sydney. Bronte’s my favourite beach.
It’s pretty safe in Sydney, compared to South America. Like for example, I could go out with my girls and not be afraid of getting mugged. We often don’t realise how good we’ve got it here compared to a lot of the world.
What don’t you like about Sydney?
I don’t like how Sydney’s public transport is so unreliable. Legit every time it rains, there are issues. The infrastructure is so old and outdated, this is a big issue.
I don’t really rate the nightlife either because everything closes so early, like restaurants close at 10 pm! Raves used to finish at 5 am, now they end at midnight! Sometimes you just want to stay out longer!
The state government is too strict when it comes to festivals and parties, like their reluctance to introduce pill testing.
What would you like to say to Sydneysiders?
Thanks for helping Sydney be the best city in Australia!
Keep being better than Melbourne! They actually think they’re better than us. (rolls eyes)
What languages do you speak?
English, Spanish
We have our own Argentinian slang that hardly anyone else understands. I feel like this is the case throughout most of South America though, everyone has their own accent.
Teach us one word/phrase from your native language.
Che- everyone in Argentina uses it.
It’s basically a synonym of Argentina. Some people believe it originates from the Italian “che” or “que” in Spanish.
It can be loosely translated to “Yo” or “Hey”, a sort of segue into a conversation.
What is one thing you want us to know about your native country?
Our culture is so interesting as it is so multicultural, for example, we have many Italians, French, Germans and Jews, Even our Spanish is heavily influenced by Italian.
We’re a very patriotic nation and everyone just tries to help each other.
One more thing, we invented the tango.
In your opinion, who is the most famous person in your native country?
Lionel Messi.
It’s either him or Maradona for the most famous Argentine and best football player of all time.
They’re so famous that people have made statues of them and worship them.
Whenever La Albiceleste, the whole country stops and watches. Soccer truly runs in our veins.
What is the best dish in your native country?
Asado - it’s the national dish and quintessential Argentine barbecue.
The difference between an Aussie ‘barbie’ and asado is the cut of meats used and the chimichurri sauce, which is made from finely chopped parsley and minced garlic.
And I freaking love empanadas.
Disclaimer: All posts are personal opinions and perspectives of the interviewees and are not a perfect representation of the whole country/experience.
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